Out Of Hours Urgent Care Centre Re-Opens

The out-of-hours Urgent Care Centre in Market Harborough has re-opened.

The facility at St Luke’s Treatment Centre Hospital is operational again, after being shut for over six months because of the coronavirus pandemic.

To minimise the risk of Covid transmission, people cannot just turn up, but must first call 111 or contact their GP practice to get an appointment.

Since April people have had to travel to a centre in Oadby or hospitals in Kettering or Leicester for minor injuries or illness treatment during the evening or weekend.

Pic Andy Carpenter

Dr Avi Prasad, GP and clinical lead for urgent care for the Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) said: “During the pandemic, our first priority is to keep our patients and staff safe. One way we can do this is by reducing overcrowding in waiting rooms to maintain social distancing, so we are booking patients into timed appointments at the best location for their needs.

“The best way to make sure you are seen in the right place, as soon as possible and with a booked appointment is to contact NHS111 first – online or by phone.”

“Winter is always a busy time for health services and we are providing extra capacity in primary care by reopening these urgent care centres and making it easier for patients to receive care closer to home when they most need it.

“We want people to know that the NHS is here for you and, although Covid means extra pressures, we do not want anyone to feel put off from seeking help. But please remember, that if the situation is not life threatening, you should make an appointment before attending any NHS service.”

To contact NHS 111 by telephone dial: 111 or go online at: https://111.nhs.uk/